Shimano Conventional Reels

Shimano SpeedMaster II 2-Speed Lever Drag Reels give offshore anglers a practical way to switch from fast line pickup to low-gear cranking power. With an all-metal body, carbon drag, four bearings, and two-speed gearing, this family is built for deep-water bottom fishing, light trolling, and yellowtail or tuna trips where pressure and control matter.

Choose from six listed sizes: 8 II, 10 II, 12 II, 16 II, 20 II, and 25 II. The smaller sizes keep a lighter profile for nearshore work, while the larger models add line capacity and higher maximum drag for deeper water and bigger fish. Confirmed technical rows for SPM12II through SPM25II are shown below; the 8 II and 10 II variants are available, but corresponding technical values were not included in the supplied specification data.

Why Two Speeds Earn Their Keep

Use the high gear when you need quick line pickup, then shift into low gear when a fish gets deep and every turn of the handle needs more leverage. The lever drag gives you a repeatable way to manage pressure during the fight. The trade-off is extra weight and a more involved reel than a single-speed model, but that added control pays off when deep-water cranking power matters.

Built for the Work Offshore Demands

Models & Confirmed Specifications

The values below are listed by model, not price, so you can compare the reel to your line plan and target species.

Monofilament Line Capacity

Capacities are shown as pounds/yards.

PowerPro Braid Line Capacity

Capacities are shown as pounds/yards.

The Right Pick If...

• You want one conventional reel family for deep-water bottom fishing and light trolling.
• You want low-gear leverage for bigger fish without giving up fast pickup in high gear.
• You are comparing yellowtail and tuna setups and need to match reel size to line capacity.
• You prefer a rigid metal-bodied reel with lever-drag control over a lighter single-speed design.

Best Techniques & Conditions

The SpeedMaster II is a strong fit for nearshore and offshore trips, especially deep-water bottom fishing and light trolling. Use high gear when you need to recover line quickly, and shift to low gear when depth, current, or a hard-running fish makes each crank count. For yellowtail or tuna, compare the capacity tables with your planned mono or PowerPro braid before choosing a size.

Tackle Express Tips

• Plan the spool first: Start with the line capacity table, then choose the smallest model that gives you the reserve you need.
• Use the gears with purpose: High gear is for pickup; low gear is for controlled pressure and deep-water cranking.
• Match the rod: Pair the reel with a conventional rod rated for your line class and technique rather than choosing by reel size alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Shimano SpeedMaster II a two-speed reel?

Yes. The family uses high and low gear ratios, with the exact ratios varying by model. SPM12II and SPM16II are listed at 5.7:1 / 3.1:1, while SPM20II and SPM25II are listed at 5.2:1 / 2.3:1.

Which SpeedMaster II size should I choose?

Choose based on your target line plan, depth, and fish size. The SPM12II and SPM16II are lighter and list 40 pounds of maximum drag, while the SPM20II and SPM25II provide more listed capacity and 44 pounds of maximum drag.

What line can I spool on these reels?

The confirmed tables above include both monofilament and PowerPro braid capacities for SPM12II, SPM16II, SPM20II, and SPM25II. The 8 II and 10 II variants are available, but their corresponding line-capacity values were not included in the supplied specifications.

Complete the Setup

For a bait-fishing setup, pair your reel with Shimano Teramar West Coast Inshore Casting Rods. For vertical jigging, compare it with Shimano Grappler Type J Conventional Jigging Rods. You can also compare the full Shimano Conventional Reels collection or read the complete Shimano Conventional Reels Buyer's Guide.

Shimano Trinidad A Star Drag Reels are built for anglers who want long casts, a compact frame, and confident control in serious saltwater. The Trinidad A combines Shimano's MagnumLite spool, HEG gearing, X-Ship support, Dartainium II drag, and corrosion-conscious construction for surface iron, live bait, heavy jigs, and offshore work.

Choose from the 12A, 14A, 16A, and 20A sizes. This is the reel you reach for when casting distance matters, the current is moving, and the next fish may be a yellowtail, tuna, white seabass, halibut, rockfish, or lingcod.

When Casting Distance Is the Whole Game

The Trinidad A is designed around a lighter, more compact profile and a free-running spool, so surface iron and live bait can travel without making the outfit feel bulky. The trade-off is that this is a specialized star-drag casting reel rather than a two-speed lever-drag workhorse. Choose it when effortless casting, direct power, and a refined retrieve matter more than low-gear cranking.

Key Features That Matter on the Water

Models & SKUs

Use the variant selector to choose your Trinidad A size. The model and SKU mapping is shown here for quick reference.

Best For

• Yellowtail and tuna with surface iron or heavy jigs.
• White seabass with live squid and anchovies.
• Halibut on live bait and large swimbaits.
• Rockfish and lingcod on heavy iron and jigs.
• Offshore, long-range, and general Southern California saltwater fishing.

Best Techniques & Conditions

Use the Trinidad A for cast-first saltwater fishing around kelp paddies, reefs, open-water structure, and party-boat or long-range conditions. It is especially well suited to surface-iron casting, live-bait work, and heavy-jig presentations where freespool and retrieve efficiency help you stay in the zone.

Tackle Express Tips

• Keep the spool moving cleanly: Rinse the reel with fresh water after saltwater use and follow the manufacturer's care guidance.
• Match the model to the trip: Choose size by your line plan, target species, and required capacity rather than casting distance alone.
• Set up for the presentation: Pair the reel with a rod and line class suited to surface iron, live bait, or heavy jigs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Shimano Trinidad A a star-drag reel?

Yes. The Trinidad A is a conventional star-drag casting reel designed for smooth pressure control and long-casting saltwater presentations.

What can I fish with a Trinidad A?

The current lineup is suited to yellowtail, tuna, white seabass, halibut, rockfish, and lingcod applications, from live bait and surface iron to heavy jigs.

How do the Trinidad A sizes differ?

The available size options are 12A, 14A, 16A, and 20A. Use your planned line, target species, and fishing depth to choose the appropriate size.

Compare Shimano Conventional Options

For a different star-drag profile, compare the Shimano Torium A Star Drag Reel. For dedicated high-speed jigging, see the Shimano Torium A 2000HG Jigging Special. You can also browse the Shimano Conventional Reels collection or read the Shimano Conventional Reels Buyer's Guide.

Shimano Torium A Star Drag Reels deliver the torque, retrieve speed, and saltwater confidence needed for everything from yellowtail and tuna to grouper, snapper, and amberjack. The lightweight aluminum frame keeps the reel comfortable to fish, while HEG gearing and a star drag give you smooth control when a deep drop turns into a hard pull.

With HG models for faster line pickup and PG models for more deliberate cranking power, the Torium A family covers light inshore work through heavy offshore applications. Choose the size, retrieve direction, and gear ratio that fit your line plan instead of forcing one reel to do every job.

Speed When You Need It, Torque When You Don't

HG models are the choice when fast retrieves help you work a jig, recover line, or keep up with a moving fish. PG models trade retrieve speed for a lower 4.2:1 ratio and a more power-focused retrieve. The star drag is simple to adjust during a fight, while the compact aluminum frame keeps the outfit manageable on long days. The trade-off is that the Torium A is a single-speed reel, so it does not offer the gear-range switch of a two-speed lever-drag model.

Key Features That Matter Offshore

Models & Confirmed Specifications

Tables are horizontally scrollable on narrow screens. Capacities are shown in pounds/yards where noted.

Line Capacity

Best For

• Yellowtail and tuna with surface iron, jigs, or live bait.
• Halibut and white seabass on live bait and large swimbaits.
• Grouper, snapper, and amberjack on deep bottom rigs and jigs.
• Offshore jigging, party-boat trips, and long-range saltwater fishing.
• General Pacific and Southern California offshore applications.

Best Techniques & Conditions

Choose the Torium A for nearshore and offshore saltwater around reefs, structure, kelp paddies, and deep bottom. Use HG when retrieve speed is the priority, and PG when you want a more deliberate, power-focused retrieve. Match the spool capacity to your line, depth, and target species before choosing a size.

Tackle Express Tips

• Choose HG or PG first: Decide whether fast line pickup or power-focused cranking better matches your technique.
• Check the hand direction: The lineup includes right- and left-hand variants, including the 16HGAL, 20HGAL, and 40PGA.
• Rinse after every trip: Freshwater care and regular maintenance help protect the reel during repeated saltwater use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Torium A HG and PG?

HG models use a 6.2:1 gear ratio for faster retrieves, while PG models use a 4.2:1 ratio for a more power-focused retrieve.

Which Torium A size is best for tuna?

Start with the line capacity and depth you expect to fish. The 20, 30, and 40 size options offer larger capacity choices, while the listed 20 and 30 models provide up to 27 pounds of maximum drag.

Is the Torium A a two-speed reel?

No. The Torium A is a single-speed star-drag family. If you need both high-speed pickup and a dedicated low gear, compare it with a two-speed lever-drag reel such as the Shimano SpeedMaster II.

Compare Shimano Conventional Reels

For long-casting surface-iron work, compare the Shimano Trinidad A. For dedicated high-speed vertical jigging, see the Shimano Torium A 2000HG Jigging Special. You can also browse the Shimano Conventional Reels collection or read the Shimano Conventional Reels Buyer's Guide.

Shimano Talica A Two-Speed Lever Drag Reels are built for the moment a strong fish sounds and a single-speed reel runs out of answers. Push-button shifting gives you high-gear line pickup when a tuna runs toward the boat, then low-gear leverage when the fight turns deep and heavy.

The six-size lineup covers SoCal bait fishing, yo-yo iron, sinker rigs, flat-fall and knife jigs, kite fishing, trolling, and long-range saltwater. Match the reel to the line class you actually fish, then use the size guide below to choose the capacity you need.

Two Speeds for the Part of the Fight That Gets Hard

High gear helps you recover line quickly, work a surface iron, and stay connected when a fish changes direction. Low gear gives you more leverage after a fish sounds under the boat. You can shift under load without backing off the drag, which is the advantage that separates this family from a single-speed conventional reel.

What the Talica A Redesign Adds

Models & Size Guide

All six listed sizes are right-hand retrieve. Use the size, line-class, and technique guidance together rather than choosing by fish name alone.

Line Capacity Reference

The following PowerPro capacity figures are confirmed in the current listing. Capacities are shown as line weight/yards.

Best Species, Techniques & Conditions

• Bluefin and yellowtail: Sinker rigs, flylined sardines or mackerel, and yo-yo iron.
• Deep-water jigging: Flat-fall and knife jigs around 200–400 feet, especially with the 20IIA and 25IIA.
• Kite and trolling work: The 25IIA, 40IIA, and 50IIA for heavier offshore presentations.
• Trips: Catalina and Channel Islands runs, 1.5-day and long-range boats, private sportfishers, and Baja saltwater trips.

The Right Pick If...

• You want both fast line pickup and low-gear cranking leverage.
• You fish bluefin on a sinker rig and need a reel that can handle the turn from open water to deep pressure.
• You want a 12IIA or 16IIA for lighter tuna and yellowtail work, or a 20IIA and up for heavier long-range applications.
• You prefer a lever drag with an included light-line cam for more gradual pressure on lighter line.

Tackle Express Tips

• Set strike drag with a scale: Roughly one-third of your topshot's rated breaking strength is a sensible starting point for bait fishing.
• Shift before you are exhausted: Move to low gear when the fish stops running and starts circling, rather than waiting until the rod is fully loaded.
• Protect the reel after the trip: Rinse with low-pressure fresh water, back the lever off for storage, and service the two-speed mechanism regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Talica A size is best for bluefin tuna?

The 20IIA is the lineup's practical starting point for many bluefin sinker-rig applications. The 25IIA adds more 65 lb. PowerPro capacity for longer-range work, while the 12IIA and 16IIA fit lighter 30 lb. class fishing.

What is the difference between the Talica A and older Talica II?

The A series adds Infinity Drive, Cross Carbon Drag, X-Protect water resistance, and an included Light-Line Drag Cam. It is a mechanical redesign rather than a cosmetic update.

Is the Talica A available in left-hand retrieve?

No. All six listed Talica A sizes are right-hand retrieve.

Complete the Setup

Protect the reel with Shimano Talica Reel Covers, or add leverage with the Shimano Talica-A T-Bar Handle Replacement. For line and terminal tackle, browse PowerPro and Seaguar. For the wider comparison, see the Shimano SpeedMaster II, Shimano Conventional Reels collection, or Shimano Conventional Reels Buyer's Guide.

Shimano Ocea Jigger LD Reels are specialized conventional reels for slow-pitch jigging and deep-water vertical techniques. HAGANE Body and Gear construction, Infinity Drive, X-Ship, MicroModule Gear II, a Fall Lever, and a line counter give serious jig anglers the control to manage the drop, work the presentation, and return to productive depth.

Choose the 2500MG for a 5.7:1 retrieve or the 2500HG for a faster 6.2:1 retrieve. The HG is available in both right- and left-hand versions, giving you more freedom to match the reel to your preferred retrieve direction.

Control the Fall, Then Feel the Bite

Slow-pitch jigging is all about cadence. The Fall Lever helps control how the jig descends, while the sensitive drag and ultra-light rotation help you stay connected to subtle bites in deep water. The trade-off is specialization: this is a jigging-focused reel, not the broadest choice for general-purpose bait or trolling work. Pick it when jig presentation and depth control come first.

Technology That Works Together

Models & Confirmed Specifications

The tables are designed to scroll cleanly on narrow screens. Ratios, hand direction, and SKUs below match the current variants.

Best For

• Slow-pitch jigging for grouper, snapper, amberjack, tuna, and yellowtail.
• Vertical jigging for rockfish, lingcod, and other deep-water species.
• Jig work around deep structure where fall rate and depth repeatability matter.
• Anglers who want a specialized lever-drag jigging reel with a line counter.

Best Techniques & Conditions

• Slow-pitch jigging: Use the Fall Lever to control the descent and tune the presentation.
• Deep-water vertical jigging: Return to productive depths with the line counter.
• Saltwater structure: Work reefs and deep structure where sensitivity and precise jig control matter.
• Retrieve choice: Use the MG for a measured 5.7:1 retrieve or HG for faster 6.2:1 line pickup.

The Right Pick If...

• You want a purpose-built slow-pitch or vertical jigging reel rather than a general-purpose conventional reel.
• You need precise jig fall control and a way to repeat productive depths.
• You prefer a right- or left-hand 2500HG option, or a right-hand 2500MG option.
• You value low-friction rotation, sensitive drag, and a compact ergonomic handle for repeated jig work.

Tackle Express Tips

• Start with the fall: Adjust the Fall Lever until the jig descends at the cadence the fish are responding to.
• Record productive depth: Use the line counter to repeat the depth instead of estimating from the surface.
• Rinse with low pressure: Freshwater care helps protect the water-resistant and corrosion-conscious components after saltwater trips.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Ocea Jigger LD MG and HG?

The 2500MG is listed with a 5.7:1 gear ratio, while the 2500HG is listed with a faster 6.2:1 ratio. Choose based on whether controlled retrieve power or faster line pickup better matches your jigging style.

Does the Ocea Jigger LD come in a left-hand model?

Yes. The current lineup includes a 2500HG left-hand variant, SKU OCEAJGLD2501HG. The 2500MG and the other 2500HG variant are right-hand models.

What makes the LD a slow-pitch reel?

The Fall Lever, sensitive drag, line counter, low-friction drive system, and ergonomic handle are all aimed at controlling the jig and repeating productive depths during vertical presentations.

Compare Shimano Jigging Reels

For star-drag jigging, compare the Shimano Ocea Jigger Star Drag Reels or the Shimano Torium A 2000HG Jigging Special. For broader conventional options, browse the Shimano Conventional Reels collection or read the Shimano Conventional Reels Buyer's Guide.

Shimano Ocea Jigger Star Drag Reels are purpose-built conventional reels for slow-pitch and vertical jigging. Infinity Drive reduces friction between the spool shaft and pinion gear, while MicroModule Gearing delivers a smooth, precise gear feel when you are working a jig all day.

Choose the 2000NR models for a compact deep-water jigging setup or step up to the 4000 size when you need more line capacity and heavier drag. The PG models favor a slower, more powerful retrieve, while HG models pick up line faster between drops.

When Jigging Demands More Than a General Reel

Jigging rewards control, rhythm, and repeatable depth. The Ocea Jigger combines an adjustable long crank handle, easy-to-tune star drag, Auto-Clutch free-spool control, spool lock, and a drag sound that helps you stay aware of line leaving the reel. The trade-off is specialization: this is a star-drag jigging reel first, not a broad-purpose trolling or two-speed lever-drag reel.

Features That Earn Their Place

Models & Confirmed Specifications

The table is built to scroll horizontally on smaller screens. These are the four current size options shown in the product listing.

Best For

• Slow-pitch jigging for yellowtail, tuna, amberjack, snapper, grouper, rockfish, and lingcod.
• Vertical jigging over reefs, deep structure, and offshore marks.
• Anglers who want star-drag simplicity, a long handle, and a smooth retrieve.
• Jig anglers choosing between faster HG line pickup, slower PG torque, and heavier 4000-size capacity.

Best Techniques & Conditions

• Slow-pitch jigging: Choose the PG when a slower cadence and more controlled retrieve fit the bite.
• Fast vertical work: Choose the HG when quicker line pickup helps you reset between drops.
• Deep-water structure: The 4000 models provide more listed PowerPro capacity and higher listed max drag for demanding presentations.
• Open-water jigging: Use the adjustable long crank handle to maintain leverage through repeated lifts and retrieves.

The Right Pick If...

• You prefer a star drag over a lever drag for quick, familiar adjustment.
• You want a dedicated jigging reel rather than a general-purpose conventional reel.
• You need a compact 2000NR platform or the greater capacity and drag rating listed for the 4000 models.
• You fish saltwater and are prepared to rinse and maintain the reel after each trip.

Tackle Express Tips

• Match the retrieve to the jig: Use the PG for a slower, more deliberate cadence and the HG when faster recovery matters.
• Set the handle before you drop: Adjust the long crank handle for comfortable leverage so your retrieve stays consistent.
• Protect the rotation: Rinse with low-pressure freshwater after saltwater use, then let the reel dry fully before storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Ocea Jigger HG and PG?

HG models have faster listed gear ratios and retrieve rates, while PG models use a slower 5.1:1 ratio and lower listed retrieve rate for a more deliberate, powerful jigging cadence.

Which size should I choose?

The 2000NR models are the compact choice for the listed 40-, 50-, and 65-pound PowerPro capacities. The 4000 models offer substantially more listed line capacity and a 40-pound max drag rating for heavier vertical work.

Is this a good reel for trolling?

The Ocea Jigger Star Drag is optimized for slow-pitch and vertical jigging. If trolling, broad bait work, or two-speed control is your priority, compare a lever-drag conventional reel instead.

Compare Shimano Jigging Reels

For lever-drag jigging control, compare the Shimano Ocea Jigger LD Reels. For another compact jigging option, see the Shimano Torium A 2000HG Jigging Special. You can also browse the Shimano Conventional Reels collection or read the Shimano Conventional Reels Buyer's Guide.

Shimano Torium A 2000HG Jigging Special is a purpose-built high-speed star-drag reel for anglers who work vertical jigs over deep water and structure. Its Hagane body, X-Ship gear system, smooth star drag, and 6.3:1 gear ratio keep the retrieve fast and controlled when yellowtail, amberjack, tuna, lingcod, or rockfish are holding deep.

This is the high-gear Torium A option for fast line recovery. It stays compact and comfortable in hand, while the rigid frame helps maintain gear alignment and drag consistency under load.

When Standard Conventional Reels Fall Short

General-purpose conventional reels can handle occasional jigging, but repetitive high-load retrieves demand better gear efficiency, faster line recovery, and a frame that resists flex. The 2000HG is tuned for that job. The trade-off is a specialized single-speed reel, so it does not provide the low-gear switch found on a two-speed lever-drag model.

Built for Vertical Jigging

Models & Confirmed Specifications

The Right Pick If...

• You vertical jig for yellowtail, amberjack, tuna, lingcod, or rockfish.
• You need fast line recovery over deep water or structure.
• You want a compact star-drag reel for knife jigs, butterfly jigs, or speed jigs.
• You fish nearshore or offshore saltwater around reefs, wrecks, seamounts, or kelp paddies.
• You want a dedicated high-speed jigging reel rather than a general-purpose conventional reel.

Best Techniques & Conditions

• Vertical and speed jigging: Knife jigs, butterfly jigs, and fast-retrieve presentations.
• Deep-drop jigging: Work 200–400 feet for bottom species where line recovery matters.
• Light to medium live bait: A flexible secondary use when a jig is not the right presentation.
• Saltwater structure: Nearshore and offshore reefs, wrecks, seamounts, and kelp paddies.

Best For

Tackle Express Tips

• Use quality braid: The confirmed setup guidance recommends 40–65 lb. braid; 50 lb. PE braid is a practical middle ground for capacity and strength.
• Pair the rod to the jig: A medium-heavy jigging rod in the 5'6"–6'0" range rated for 2–4 oz. jigs is the current recommended pairing.
• Check drag before launch: Set it near one-third of your line's breaking strength and confirm it moves smoothly before fishing deep.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Torium A 2000HG a good yellowtail jigging reel?

Yes. Its 6.3:1 ratio supports fast jig retrieves, and the compact frame pairs well with dedicated jigging rods for Southern California yellowtail work.

How is the 2000HG different from the regular Torium A lineup?

The 2000HG is a dedicated high-speed jigging model with a 6.3:1 gear ratio, 22 pounds of maximum drag, and a listed 65 lb. / 330 yd braid capacity. The regular Torium A family offers multiple HG and PG sizes for broader offshore use.

What line should I use?

The current setup guidance recommends 40–65 lb. braided line, with 50 lb. PE braid offering a balance of capacity, sensitivity, and strength for many jigging applications.

Compare Shimano Conventional Reels

For a broader size range, compare the Shimano Torium A Star Drag Reels. For long-casting surface iron, see the Shimano Trinidad A Star Drag Reels. You can also browse the Shimano Conventional Reels collection or read the Shimano Conventional Reels Buyer's Guide.